What a thought-provoking read. I can’t think of the last time a book took me on this type of journey.
We meet the main character, Charlie, in Thailand, as she is reeling from a shock that makes her question her decisions. Unfortunately for her, she soon gets a message from home that unexpectedly sends her back to England. Once this is all set up, the story switches gears as Charlie slowly uncovers unknown family secrets that have lasting repercussions.
That’s all you’re going to get from me in terms of plot information.
I completely identified with Charlie, especially at the beginning. Her wanderlust and desire to do something other than what she saw as the dull expectations of home. However, I think it was precisely this spirit that led her to her further explorations later in the book.
The author did an excellent job of weaving the family secrets into Charlie’s personal journey as well. She learned a lot about her mom but also about herself.
What I liked most about this book, however, was how leisurely the story unfolded. I felt like I floated through this story (not unlike the houseboat), which was a wonderful way to experience it, and allowed me to fully recognize (and feel) the emotions that Charlie was encountering.
The book does start a little bit slow, with some uncertainty as to where it is going. But stick with it, as a few chapters in you will be caught up in the story just as I was.
About Sarah Jasmon
Sarah Jasmon lives on a canal boat near Manchester with her children. She has had several short stories published, is curating a poetry anthology, and has recently graduated from the Creative Writing MA course at Manchester Metropolitan University. To find out more, visit www.sarahjasmon.com
Website: https://sarahjasmon.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahontheboat/
Thank you x